The term “restomod” is becoming a bit like the word “patina” in the enthusiast vehicle world. We hear it an awful lot, and while it’s not necessarily incorrect to use it in cases when older vehicles are tastefully updated, there are definitely different grades of what constitutes a true restmod. However, you don’t have to overpay for a gussied-up vintage ride to enjoy a classic with some level of modern convenience, and that’s what we have with this super clean 1990 Ford Mustang ASC McLaren listed here on craigslist.
You see the likes of Ford Broncos and vintage Dodge Challengers used as the basis for blank check restomod recreations. And the buyers of those vehicles certainly have a certain level of comfort in mind. But for my money, I’d be all over a car like the ASC McLaren. It’s certainly modern enough that you won’t feel like you’re being penalized for driving it, and the ASC conversion gives it that custom touch that is inherently baked into any professional restomod ride. The seller notes that this Jet Black example is one of only 14 made in 1990, and combined with some tasteful modifications, it presents very well.
The seller highlights some tweaks, including a Cobra front bumper and Stalker rear bumper. The wheels appear to be Cobra wheels that are color-matched on the spokes. It’s an interesting look, and while some may prefer the stock appearance of the wheels offered at the time – this may have been the Enkei saw blade design that came on later ASC conversions – it is in keeping with an OEM+ design. The interior is in fantastic condition, which is pretty typical for an ASC McLaren due to how many of them are kept in collector-grade condition. Those nicely-bolstered bucket seats should prove supportive over a long and twisty back road.
The engine bay appears to be unmodified, with not even an aftermarket cold air intake marring the stock appearance. This is the way you want to buy a collector car: some modifications, cosmetic in nature and that are easily reversible, with the mechanical bits left intact. The ASC McLarens weren’t seen as performance cars but they were distinctly different from the showroom Fox bodies, so they still had that vibe of being special. The seller’s car is rare not only for being one of these limited production models, but also because we don’t see them all that often in black. Thanks to Barn Finds reader T.J. for the tip.
Good write-up Jeff. I agree with your theme. It’s a desirable ASC McLaren Fox, which are “out there” for reasonable prices. With this example adding reasonable and attractive mods and looking to be in good condition, still for a reasonable price.
Really like this example. Best seats of the Foxes too. What a sharp, clean Mustang.
It’s nice, but ugly. The proportions with the top up are off, especially when you compare its side profile to a factory Fox body convertible. It also has GT style front spoiler and side cladding, the market has clearly made a choice and the cleaner look of the 5.0 LX has won, other than the 1993 Cobra.
Steve R
Lose that rear wing, add the proper luggage 🧳 rack Steve solves it.
RUINED NO stupid luggage rack on a McLaren. Kinda thought they were KOOL but way to expensive and majority were the horrible AOD mush box basically built for old men. Should have left the KOOL spoiler and specific tail light covers that makes it a McLaren. Thats why I bought an LX 5.O CONVERTIBLE with a real transmission and it only has real low mileage 28,000 and I literally fought with Ford to not put the stupid luggage rack on it. It was also ordered in bright yellow but they decided not to paint them in that color so it end up in arrest me red
Changing the plastic bumpers and painting the wheels on a stock car does not make this a “restomod”. To make things worse, this is an automatic.
EJ you’ll rue the decision to forgo the luggage 🧳 rack when you’re on vacation and the wifey picks up a new wardrobe, and souvenirs for family 👪 and friends.
Get rid of that rear spoiler it just don’t work on this car for me.